UDESMO mourns the tragic loss of Banoyolo Krakra
Statement by Lucia Matomane, UDESMO Eastern Cape Provincial Chairperson
The United Democratic Students’ Movement (UDESMO) expresses deep sorrow and outrage at the murder of Banoyolo Krakra, a beloved student at Lovedale TVET College and a proud member of our student community.
Banoyolo was a committed young woman who was pursuing an NCV Level 2 qualification in Generic Management. She showed remarkable responsibility and compassion by using her NSFAS funds to support her family before returning to her studies. Her brutal killing is a cruel and senseless act that has robbed her family, community, and our country of a promising life and future leader.
We send our heartfelt condolences to the Krakra family and to all who knew and loved Banoyolo. Their pain is also our pain. UDESMO stands in solidarity with them during this time of unimaginable grief and we will support their call for justice every step of the way.
This tragedy is yet another painful reminder of the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide crisis that continues to destroy lives, particularly those of young women. We call on the South African Police Service to leave no stone unturned in their investigation and to ensure that those responsible are swiftly brought to justice.
UDESMO also calls on Lovedale TVET College to prioritise student safety and to ensure that adequate trauma counselling is made available to Banoyolo’s classmates who are reeling from this devastating loss.
Although Banoyolo was not found on campus, her body was discovered on Cambridge Street in Qonce, near a local tavern, by a patrolling security officer. She had suffered stab wounds to her upper body. This tragic incident highlights the broader safety concerns affecting students beyond campus boundaries and demands urgent attention from institutions and law enforcement alike.
Banoyolo’s life mattered. Her memory will live on in our commitment to fight for safer campuses and communities.
May her soul rest in peace. We will never forget her.
